PhD Postgraduate research in Library and Information Management

Program Overview

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PhD Postgraduate research in Library and Information Management

Overview

The PhD in Library and Information at the University of Wolverhampton provides a unique opportunity to engage in advanced research at the forefront of information science. Supervised by the internationally renowned Statistical Cybermetrics Research Group, you’ll explore innovative methods to analyse and evaluate research outputs through scientometrics, webometrics, and altmetrics.

Why choose this course?

World-Leading Expertise

• The Statistical Cybermetrics Research Group is recognised globally for its groundbreaking work, with much of its research rated as “world-leading” in the most recent national evaluation (REF2014).
• You’ll receive expert supervision from a team with extensive experience in quantitative analyses of publication and web data, addressing issues critical to research evaluation and impact.

Exceptional Success Rate

• The group has a 100% PhD completion success rate, demonstrating its commitment to supporting students through every stage of their academic journey.

Opportunities for Academic Excellence

• As a PhD candidate, you’ll have opportunities to:
  • Attend monthly meetings with your Director of Studies for personalised guidance.
  • Participate in the Statistical Cybermetrics Research Group doctoral forum, where you’ll present your research and collaborate with peers.
  • Publish up to three international journal articles during your studies, showcasing your research to a global audience.
  • Attend one to two international conferences, gaining exposure to the latest developments and building valuable professional networks.

Access to Cutting-Edge Resources

• Be part of the Research Institute for Information and Language Processing (RIILP), giving you access to expertise in advanced text processing and computational analysis.
• Participate in the institute’s joint seminar series featuring internationally invited speakers, enhancing your knowledge and expanding your professional network.

A Supportive and Collaborative Environment

• The program fosters a collaborative research culture, enabling you to engage with interdisciplinary topics that span library science, information retrieval, and digital innovation.
• Benefit from Wolverhampton’s commitment to professional and academic development through workshops and training offered by the Faculty of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics.

What's unique about this course?

The PhD in Library and Information at the University of Wolverhampton stands out as a premier program for aspiring researchers in information science. Here are the key features that make it unique:

1. Global Recognition and Expertise

• Supervised by the Statistical Cybermetrics Research Group, an internationally acclaimed team recognised for groundbreaking research in scientometrics, webometrics, and altmetrics.

2. Proven Track Record of Success

• A 100% PhD completion rate, demonstrating the program’s robust support system and dedication to student success.
• Alumni have advanced into impactful academic and professional roles, contributing to innovations in information and library science.

3. Exceptional Research Opportunities

• Access to the Research Institute for Information and Language Processing (RIILP), providing cutting-edge resources for text processing and computational analysis.
• Opportunities to attend international conferences and publish in prestigious journals, building a strong academic portfolio during your studies.

4. Collaborative Learning Environment

• Interact with interdisciplinary scholars through RIILP’s joint seminar series featuring globally renowned experts.

5. Industry-Relevant Focus

• Research topics address contemporary challenges in research evaluation, digital metrics, and data analysis, making your findings applicable to academia, policy-making, and industry.
• Strong emphasis on quantitative analysis, equipping you with sought-after skills in data interpretation and research assessment.

6. Flexible and Personalised Support

• Tailored supervision and regular one-on-one meetings ensure personalised guidance throughout your doctoral journey.
• Flexible study modes accommodate both full-time and part-time students, supporting diverse professional and personal commitments.

What happens on the course?

The PhD in Library and Information at the University of Wolverhampton offers a structured and supportive framework to guide students through their research journey. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Registration

• Expression of Interest: Start by submitting a detailed proposal outlining your research interests, which will be reviewed by the Statistical Cybermetrics Research Group.
• Supervisor Allocation: Upon acceptance, you’ll be matched with a Director of Studies and a supervisory team with expertise in your chosen area.
• Research Planning: Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research plan, ensuring its alignment with the program’s objectives and global trends in information science.

2. Induction and Initial Training

• Gain an understanding of key methodologies in scientometrics, webometrics, and altmetrics.
• Participate in foundational workshops organised by the Research Institute for Information and Language Processing (RIILP) to build expertise in computational and statistical methods.

3. Progression Milestones

• Doctoral Forum Participation: Present your ongoing work at monthly forums, receiving constructive feedback and insights from peers and experts in the Statistical Cybermetrics Research Group.
• Progress Reports: Submit formal progress reports summarising your research achievements and outlining your plans for future work.
• Workshops and Seminars: Attend seminars hosted by RIILP and the Faculty of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics, where you’ll learn advanced techniques and explore interdisciplinary approaches.

4. Examination

• Thesis Submission: Document your findings in a comprehensive thesis that advances the understanding of information metrics.
• Viva Voce: Defend your research in an oral examination before a panel of expert examiners, including at least one external to the university.

5. Research Dissemination

• Publish your findings in leading international journals, contributing to global discussions in library and information science.
• Participate in the broader academic community by sharing your work through RIILP’s seminar series and related platforms.

Potential Career Paths

• Data Scientist
• Research Impact Analyst
• Digital Archivist
• Library and Information Science Academic
• Knowledge Management Specialist
• Information Policy Advisor
• Scholarly Communications Consultant

Additional Information

Why Wolverhampton?

Choosing the University of Wolverhampton for your PhD in Library and Information provides you with access to an innovative, supportive, and globally recognised academic environment. Here’s why Wolverhampton stands out:

1. World-Class Research Excellence

• Be part of the Statistical Cybermetrics Research Group, known for pioneering work in scientometrics, webometrics, and altmetrics.
• Join a research team that has received national recognition, with much of its work rated as “world-leading” in REF2014.

2. Outstanding Facilities and Resources

• Conduct your research with access to cutting-edge tools and data analysis software through the Research Institute for Information and Language Processing (RIILP).
• Utilise comprehensive library resources, databases, and digital tools to support your research.

3. Vibrant Research Community

• Become a member of an interdisciplinary network of researchers, enabling collaboration across fields such as data science, engineering, and social sciences.
• Regular seminars and forums provide opportunities to share ideas, gain feedback, and engage with leading academics from around the globe.

4. Flexible and Personalised Learning

• Tailored supervision and flexible study options (full-time or part-time) accommodate diverse student needs.
• Individualised support ensures your research journey aligns with your academic goals and personal commitments.

5. Strong Professional Development

• Enhance your skills through workshops and training organised by the Doctoral College and Faculty of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics.
• Develop a strong academic and professional profile with opportunities for teaching, publishing, and presenting at conferences.

6. Strategic Location and Global Connectivity

• Wolverhampton’s central location offers access to a vibrant professional and academic network within the UK and beyond.

Research Areas

We welcome research proposals in a wide range of topics, including:

• Scientometrics: Quantitative analysis of research publications, citations, and impact.
• Webometrics: Study of web-based metrics to understand digital information dissemination and influence.
• Altmetrics: Exploration of alternative metrics, such as social media impact and online engagement, to evaluate research visibility.
• Text and Data Mining: Advanced computational techniques to extract insights from large datasets.
• Digital Libraries: Research on the design, usability, and efficiency of digital library systems.
• Information Retrieval: Innovative approaches to improving access and discovery in digital environments.
• Research Evaluation: Methods for assessing academic and industry research outputs.

What skills will you gain?

The PhD in Library and Information at the University of Wolverhampton equips students with a diverse and powerful skill set essential for academic excellence, industry innovation, and professional growth. Here’s what you’ll develop during the course:

1. Advanced Research Skills

• Quantitative Analysis: Expertise in applying statistical and computational methods to large datasets, particularly in scientometrics, webometrics, and altmetrics.
• Research Evaluation: Master techniques to assess research impact using cutting-edge metrics and methodologies.
• Data Interpretation: Develop proficiency in analysing complex web and publication data to derive actionable insights.

2. Academic and Professional Writing

• Produce high-quality research papers suitable for publication in top-tier international journals.
• Hone your ability to present arguments clearly and persuasively, both in your thesis and conference presentations.

3. Communication and Presentation

• Build confidence in presenting your research findings at international conferences, seminars, and internal forums.
• Learn to tailor your communication style to different audiences, from academic peers to industry stakeholders.

4. Technical and Computational Expertise

• Gain hands-on experience with advanced tools and software for data collection, statistical modeling, and text analysis.
• Leverage computational techniques to explore innovative solutions in research metrics and digital information processing.

5. Networking and Collaboration

• Collaborate with international researchers and professionals through the Research Institute for Information and Language Processing (RIILP) and other partnerships.
• Expand your professional network by participating in seminars, forums, and global conferences.

6. Leadership and Project Management

• Learn to independently plan, execute, and manage long-term research projects, meeting milestones effectively.
• Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior researchers and participating in group discussions within the doctoral forum.

7. Teaching and Mentorship

• Gain experience in teaching and guiding students, enhancing your academic CV and preparing you for roles in higher education.

Course Fees and Finance

Location | Mode | Fee | Year
---|---|---|---
Home | Full-time | £4786 per year |
Home | Full-time | £5006 per year |
Home | Part-time | £2393 per year |
Home | Part-time | £2503 per year |
International | Full-time | £15950 per year |
International | Full-time | £16950 per year |

Entry Requirements

• Applicants for a research degree shall normally hold either:
  • a first or upper second class honours degree, or
  • a master’s degree, or
  • evidence of prior practice or learning that is accepted by the Dean of Research.
• Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English at least to the level of an IELTS score (or equivalent) of 7.0, with no individual element less than 6.0.

Funding

• Financial support for research study:
  • Government loans (Home Fee Status)
  • Self-funded
  • Research councils
  • University Research Studentships
  • Other sources (e.g., Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund)